FAU Receives $2.6 Million Donation To Expand Hillel On Boca Raton Campus
Florida Atlantic University (FAU) recently received a $2.6 million donation from Hillel of Broward and Palm Beach for the renovation and expansion of the Hillel space at the S.E. Wimberly Library on FAU’s Boca Raton campus.
The new space, named The Newman Bernstein Hillel at FAU in honor of its lead contributor, Boca Raton philanthropist Debbie Newman Bernstein, will include modernized study areas, spaces for learning and socializing and facilities for hosting events, including large Shabbat dinners. The expansion will also feature a secured main entrance and an outdoor covered seating area.
“We are grateful to Hillel of Broward and Palm Beach and to Debbie Newman Bernstein for this generous gift that will support vibrant Jewish student life on our Boca Raton campus,” says FAU President Stacy Volnick. “We are dedicated to ensuring that all students feel welcome at Florida Atlantic, and this gift will enable the University to meet the growing needs of our Jewish students.”
Hillel of Broward and Palm Beach supports more than 5,000 Jewish students across multiple institutions, including FAU, Palm Beach State College, Lynn University, Nova Southeastern University and Broward College. The organization serves as a central hub for Jewish life, providing experiences through social and networking events, community service projects, travel opportunities, Jewish learning, free Shabbat dinners and mentoring programs.
“Building a home for FAU’s Jewish students is particularly meaningful for Debbie, as it combines her passion for nurturing the next generation along with her father’s unwavering support for Israel and the Jewish community,” says Brandey Edelson, board chair of Hillel of Broward and Palm Beach. “This extraordinary achievement not only addresses the immediate needs of Jewish students at FAU but also strengthens our community to creating a supportive and thriving environment across all campuses in our region. At this moment in history, it is more critical than ever to provide a safe and welcoming space on campus for Jewish students and the wider FAU community. While we’ve made significant progress, there is still much work ahead to ensure that every Jewish student feels secure, supported and empowered.”
For more information, visit hillelcenter.org.
Photo courtesy of Hillel of Broward and Palm Beach
Student Life Center rendering
